Calcot wife killer sentenced

Steven Grainger jailed following manslaughter verdict

A FATHER of two who strangled his wife to death could be free in under six years.

There were gasps and tears from relatives of victim Simone Grainger as her husband Steven was sentenced for her manslaughter at Reading Crown Court today (Thursday).

During the trial the jury heard how, during one of their frequent rows, cocaine-addicted Grainger, aged 32, killed his wife and the judge described it as a "sustained and brutal attack."

Grainger denied both murder and manslaughter, claiming self defence as she attacked him with a pair of scissors.

He was cleared of committing murder at the family home in Windsor Way, Calcot, last November 4, but convicted of manslaughter.

The court had heard how Grainger fled the scene, leaving it to family members to discover the body.

For a full report on today's sentencing hearing, including an emotional victim impact statement from the family and the judge's withering comments to Grainger, pick up a copy of the Newbury Weekly News next week.